A podiatrist might not be the first doctor that comes to mind when planning your diabetes care, but neglecting your feet is one of the biggest mistakes diabetic patients make.
Diabetes is a complex condition that affects your nerves and blood circulation — both essential for healthy feet and legs. As an experienced podiatrist in Marietta, Georgia, Ryan Goldfine, DPM, at Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia, specializes in preventing and treating diabetic foot complications before they escalate into life-threatening problems.
This Diabetes Awareness Month, we’re sharing five reasons why a podiatrist should be part of your diabetes care plan.
Foot ulcers are one of the most serious complications of diabetes, and they develop more easily than you might think. High blood sugar damages nerves over time, which means you may not feel a small blister, cut, or area of irritation on your foot. What starts as minor friction can quickly become an open wound.
We perform thorough foot examinations to identify pressure points, calluses, and areas of concern before they break down into ulcers. We can also spot changes in your skin temperature and texture that signal trouble brewing beneath the surface.
Catching these warning signs early means we can take action to prevent ulcers from forming in the first place and provide wound care if they do develop.
When you have diabetes, even minor foot problems can spiral into major complications. Ingrown toenails can pierce the skin and create an entry point for bacteria, while fungal infections break down the protective barrier your skin provides.
Podiatrists have the expertise and tools to trim your toenails safely, treat fungal infections with prescription medications, and address skin conditions that put you at risk.
This is perhaps the most important reason to include a podiatrist in your care team. Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations in the U.S., but many of these amputations are preventable with proper foot care.
Regular podiatric visits create a safety net. We can monitor your circulation, check for nerve damage, and treat problems before they become limb-threatening.
Between podiatry appointments, you need to know what to look for and how to properly care for your feet. Our team teaches you the skills to become an active participant in your foot health.
Learn how to perform daily foot inspections (including checking areas you can't easily see with a mirror), recognize warning signs that require immediate attention, and understand which over-the-counter products are safe to use. This education empowers you to catch problems early and know when it's time to call for professional help.
Not all diabetic foot problems result from visible injuries. Repetitive pressure from walking, especially if your gait is uneven or your shoes don't fit properly, can cause tissue damage beneath the skin.
Custom orthotics redistribute pressure across your foot, eliminating hot spots that could develop into ulcers. We design orthotics specifically for your foot structure and walking pattern, providing protection that generic inserts simply can't match. Combined with proper footwear recommendations, orthotics are a powerful tool for keeping your feet healthy.
If you have diabetes, proactive foot care is essential. Our expert team works alongside your primary care physician to provide comprehensive care that protects your mobility and quality of life.
Call Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia at 678-552-1108 or request an appointment online today.
